Let x = the amount Amy has and y = Maria's amount.

x = y-$8 "Amy has $8 less than Maria

x+y = $30

(y-$8)+y = $30 .

2y-$8 = $30 Add $8 to both sides of equation.

2y = $38 Divide both sides by 2.

y = $19 ...and...

x = M-$8

x = $19-$8

x= $11

hence Amy has $11 and maria has 19.